The Office serves a critical role in county government. Records affecting the economic viability of the county, the history of the county, and the personal lives of its citizens-all reside here. Ownership rights and claims on property constitute major wealth in American society. One of the largest investments a person makes in his or her lifetime is the purchase of a home. Mortgages are a critical component of the financial industry. The local government property tax base is made possible from the records contained in the Register of Deeds Office.

Real estate documents such as deeds, deeds of trust, and maps and plats are recorded here. We issue marriage licenses, and maintain birth and death records. We issue notary oaths and maintain notary commissions. Numerous miscellaneous documents may be recorded in compliance with statutes. We also file armed forces discharges and issue certified copies of them to our military, free of charge, to the Veteran. The McDowell County Register of Deeds Office has real estate record dating back to the formation of the county in 1842. Some marriage records are available from 1867. Birth and death records are available from 1913 to present. I make an effort daily to "Exceed the expectations of the public", for the citizens of McDowell County.